The Gettysburg Cyclorama, painted in the 1880s by French artist Paul Phillippoteaux and a team of artists, is a massive piece that runs 42 feet high and 377 feet long, making the Cyclorama one of the largest, free-standing paintings in North America. The painting is a rendition of the famous "Pickett's Charge" on the third day of the Battle of Gettysburg. Suspended in-the-round from the ceiling, this massive work of art creates a spectacular 360-degree illusion when viewed from the platform.

Explore the history of the genre of cycloramas and the history of the Gettysburg Cyclorama in this behind-the-scenes program. The presentation covers the fascinating creation of this piece of art, the rich symbolism found in the painting and an interesting discussion on the extensive conservation effort. Enjoy additional time on the viewing platform to observe in full light the remarkable, close-up details and distant battle scenes of the painting. Journey under the diorama to see how the illusion comes to life. There will be time for a question and answer session. Photography is welcomed.

The special program lasts about two hours and is limited to 40 attendees. Single adult ticket price is $20 and youth ticket (ages 6 to 12) is $10. The program begins in the Ford Motor Company Fund Education Center.

The program will also be offered in 2019 on:

Saturday, March 23, 5 p.m.

Saturday, June 15, 6 p.m.

Saturday, July 20, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 17, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 12, 6 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 22, 5 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 23, 3:45 p.m.

To order tickets, visit GettysburgFoundation.org or call the Reservations Department at 877-874-2478. Tickets can also be purchased at the ticket counter in the lobby of the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.